This report addresses two mission elements of the Strategic Air Command's 3d Air Division: B-52 operations in Southeast Asia (SEA) and KC-135 air refueling support of the Seventh Air Force's tactical strike operations. Other mission elements are examined briefly, including SIOP reflex action responsibilities in the Western Pacific, B-52 refueling support, radio relay, and ELINT operations. SAC OPlan 52-65, which was issued in mid-1964, comprised the framework for ARC LIGHT bombing operations against selected targets in SEA with conventional bombs; OPlan 18-65 provided the outline for KC-135 refueling operations in the Western Pacific and SEA. Implementation of these plans in 1965 provides the historical point of departure for this report which treats the evolution of these operations through December 1968. Discussion of the organization, forces involved, assigned mission, and command, control, and coordination arrangements for B-52 ARC LIGHT and KC-135 YOUNG TIGER operations are provided. Pertinent Rules of Engagement are reflected with appropriate explanations of coordination processes among SAC, MACV, 7AF, and CINCPAC, as well as the SEA/TACS control responsibilities. In addressing B-52 operations, emphasis is also given to sortie rates, types and amounts of munitions/ordnance employed, numbers of aircraft and aircrews involved, and factual evaluation of their effectiveness. Evaluation is limited to documented evidence found in official reports and related material, including written and oral comments by military leaders involved in SEA operations.

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